Lemon Dump Cake Delight

Lemon dump cake is my no fuss answer for dessert emergencies whenever someone calls to say they are stopping by for coffee or the kids surprise me with a request for something sweet This recipe delivers sunshiney lemon flavor with just a handful of ingredients no mixers or complicated steps needed

Every time I make this for a get together it vanishes before I even get to pour a second cup of coffee Once my sister called it the laziest most genius dessert she had ever had

Ingredients

• Lemon cake mix: this shortcut gives the cake its punchy citrus aroma look for a brand with real lemon oil for best flavor
• Lemon pie filling: brings the tart jammy lemon layer it should be thick and glossy choose a brand with whole pieces of lemon if possible
• Unsalted butter: this coats the cake mix and adds rich flavor always use real butter for the best taste and color
• Powdered sugar: optional for dusting on top once baked it lends a little sparkle and balances tartness sift it for the prettiest finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit one hundred seventy five degrees Celsius Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so nothing sticks

Layer the Lemon Filling

Spoon the entire can of lemon pie filling into the baking dish then use a spatula to spread it evenly to corners This ensures every bite is full of bright citrus flavor

Top with Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix over the lemon pie filling Make sure to cover the filling entirely without big patches so the cake browns evenly

Drizzle with Melted Butter

Pour melted butter slowly all over the dry cake mix surface Move back and forth to moisten as much of the top as you can Any dry patches will end up crumbly instead of crisp

Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in your oven Bake for thirty five to forty minutes The surface should be golden brown and the edges bubbling with lemony goodness Check the center with a spoon to confirm the cake mix is set not wet

Cool and Finish

Once out of the oven let the cake cool for at least five minutes so the layers set and you can serve neat slices If using dust the top with powdered sugar right before serving

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I cannot resist sneaking a corner piece the edges get extra golden Each time my mom visits she requests hers served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh lemon zest

Storage Tips

Let the cake cool completely before covering to prevent sogginess You can store it covered in the fridge for up to four days Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about twenty seconds for maximum gooeyness

Ingredient Substitutions

If you only have white or yellow cake mix add a teaspoon of grated lemon zest to mimic the lemony brightness You can swap lemon curd in for the pie filling just spread it gently so it is even And for a dairy free version use melted coconut oil in place of butter

Serving Suggestions

Serve lemon dump cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of fresh whipped cream For a brunch treat I love pairing it with fresh berries and a mint sprig It is also delicious chilled for a cool tangy afternoon snack

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Cultural Context

Dump cakes rose to fame in mid century America when convenience was king Folks fell in love with the idea of tossing pantry ingredients into a pan no fuss no waiting and pulling out a golden bubbling cake This lemon version nods to summery classic pie flavors but eliminates all of the tricky crust steps

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade lemon pie filling?

Yes, homemade lemon pie filling works well and adds a personalized touch, just ensure it matches the consistency of the canned version for best layering.

→ What if I don’t have lemon cake mix?

A yellow or white cake mix makes a good substitute. For extra tang, add a little fresh lemon zest to the dry mix before layering.

→ How do I achieve an extra crisp topping?

Try adding a sprinkle of sugar atop the cake mix before baking, or mix a handful of sliced almonds for added crunch.

→ Is it necessary to cool before serving?

Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps the layers set and makes serving easier, but it’s also delicious enjoyed warm.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store covered at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat to enjoy that just-baked texture again.